NYC's Best Movie Theaters In 2015
From independent films to foreign cinema, these are the five New York City theaters where you should be watching your next flick. By Carly Petrone.
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Indie movie fanatics should make their way to the Film Forum. This three-screen cinema is open 365 days a year and offers the best selection of independent and foreign films as well as extended runs of popular selections. Many NYC theatrical premieres have taken place at this iconic theater. Make sure to check out their event calendar. Just a few of their upcoming events include THE TALES OF HOFFMAN introduced by Thelma Schoonmaker Powell on March 13th and DIOR AND I with filmmaker Frederic Tcheng in person on April 10th. Check website for more details and show times.
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There's a reason the Angelika Film Center has been recognized as one of the most successful arthouses in the U.S. Since 1989 it's been showing an eclectic mix of independent and foreign films in SoHo. It's also located at the beautiful The Cable Building on the corner of Houston and Mercer Streets. There's also a café inside that is busy serving gourmet foods, pastries, and beverages – you don't even need a movie ticket to eat there! Dine there for breakfast or take a lunch break and enjoy a sandwich or quiche. They even have a vegan menu. You can host an event there or attend a special event like Q&A's with filmmakers and other artists in the area. Check website for show times and current movie listings.
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Okay, this one isn't technically a movie theater but it does screen movies and classic TV shows every night (sometimes trivia and other games are part of the viewing). This video store turned bar has a spacious back room with a large screen for a decent sized group to watch. They've shown everything from Freaks and Geeks to Grey Gardens. Grab a drink or a movie-themed cocktail and feel free to bring in your own snacks (did we mention Vanessa's Dumplings is right next door?). Plus, they invite some of the most talented filmmakers and authors to come share their work during the Local Filmmaker Showcase and other special events. Stop by on April 2nd for the Strong Female Lead series where sponsor Bust Magazine will be screening Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion at 9:30 p.m. And it won't cost you much because most admittance is free or up to $5.
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The IFC Center is the mecca of all independent film in New York City. Located in the historic Waverly Theater, the space got a bit of an upgrade when it was renovated back in 2005. It includes five state-of-the-art cinemas with High-Def digital and 35mm projection and it serves organic popcorn with real butter. As a nod to the space, they offer Waverly Midnights – screenings of cult movies on Friday and Saturday nights at midnight. They also show weekend classics on Sundays at 11 a.m. as well as Short Attention Span Cinema – short films that screen before every feature. Another fun fact? Every November they host DOC NYC, New York's documentary festival. Learn more here. And don't' forget to check out the vintage movie posters from around the globe as you walk to your theater. The actual seats are pretty close together so come prepared to say hello to your neighbor. Check website for move show times and ticket prices.
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Make your way over to Brooklyn because Nitehawk Cinema is offering a total movie experience. Impress your date at this cinema eatery – yep, you read that correctly. This place is offering everything from handcrafted cocktails to goumet concessions like Mushroom & Truffle Risotto Balls, Cheese & Meat Platters, and Pressed Grilled Cheese. Even their popcorn is gourmet – try the Seasonal Popcorn with wasabi, sesame seed, and miso butter or the Nitehawk Popcorn with truffle butter and citric salt. Everything is delivered directly to your seat, including dessert! You can also watch a movie while having brunch at the same time. Grab something from The Breakfast Club ($14) and sip on a complimentary mimosa, Bloody Mary, soda, hot tea, coffee, or iced coffee. Um, does it get any better than that? Check website for food and drink specials and movie show times.
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Carly Petrone is a freelance writer living in New York City.
